Pulmicort Flexhaler (Budesonide)

Pulmicort Flexhaler (Budesonide) Medication Information

Uses

Pulmicort Flexhaler is a inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) that is used to treat asthma.

Dosage

The Pulmicort Flexhaler contains several strengths of budesonide:

• 90 mcg
• 180 mcg

Side Effects

The most common side effects of Pulmicort include:

• Nasopharyngitis
• Pharyngitis 
• Nasal congestion
• Viral upper respiratory infection
• Oral candidiasis 

Speak with your doctor for a full list of side effects that apply to you if you are taking Pulmicort.

Precautions

Pulmicort like other ICS can cause a localized fungal infection called thrush. It is important that following Flexhaler use that patients rinse their mouth with water. 

Pulmicort is a long acting ICS, so it cannot be used to treat acute symptoms of asthma. 

With all corticosteroids, there is a risk of adrenal suppression when using Pulmicort, so the medication should not be stopped unless recommended by a physician, and this risk is increased then taking oral steroids. 

Interactions

The most common drug interactions with Pulmicort include:

• Ketoconazole
• Ritonavir
• Clarithromycin
• Phenytoin
• Carbamazepine

Speak with your doctor for more information and before starting a new medication with Pulmicort. 

Storage

Store at room temperature (68-77ºF). 

Pharmacist Tips

• Pulmicort is not a rescue inhaler, and it is not for use with acute symptoms. 
• Patients should rinse their mouths with water following Pulmicort use.  
• Pulmicort Flexhaler should be used daily to control asthma symptoms. 

Budesonide FAQs

How many times a day can you use Pulmicort?

The typical recommended dose is to use the Flexhaler twice a day.

How do I know if my Pulmicort inhaler is working?

The flexhaler should have a dose indicator, it will move after administering 5 doses, when it reads 0 the canister is empty.

Is Pulmicort an anti-inflammatory?

Pulmicort is a corticosteroid which can reduce inflammation. 

What are the side effects of Pulmicort?

The most common side effects with Pulmicort include sore throat, runny nose, nose bleeds, sneezing, and cough. 

Is Pulmicort inhaler a steroid?

Yes, Pulmicort is an inhaled steroid.

Related Drugs

• Advair 
• Asmanex
• Flovent
• Qvar
• Symbicort

Reference:

Pulmicort Flexhaler {package insert}. Wilmington, DE: AstraZeneca LP; 2010.

https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2010/021949s006lbl.pdf